Memphis, TN, August 16, 2025
News Summary
This weekend, Memphis is bustling with activities including the Poke Fest, the premiere of the acclaimed play ‘Come from Away’, and the Patio Porkers barbecue competition. Food lovers can enjoy various poke dishes at Poke Fest, while theatergoers can experience a heartwarming story at Playhouse on the Square. Additionally, barbecue enthusiasts will gather at Handy Park for some friendly competition, alongside a chicken and beer festival at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, offering a diverse range of events for all interests.
Memphis Hosts Exciting Weekend Events: Poke Fest, Theater Premieres, and More
Memphis is set to host an array of exciting events this weekend, including the Poke Fest, the theatrical premiere of Come from Away, and the second annual Patio Porkers competition. These events promise to offer something for everyone in the community.
Poke Fest Details
The Poke Fest will take place Saturday and Sunday at the Hilton, starting each day at 10 a.m. Admission is just $5, which provides attendees with the chance to partake in exciting activities, including live giveaways every hour. This event is an excellent opportunity for lovers of poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish, to explore various offerings and celebrate the culinary art with fellow enthusiasts.
Theater Premiere of Come from Away
The much-anticipated Come from Away premieres on Friday at Playhouse on the Square at 8 p.m. This acclaimed theater production tells the heartwarming story of how 7,000 stranded passengers were hosted by the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, after the events of September 11, 2001. Tickets for the show start at $25, with a pay-what-you-can option available to ensure accessibility for all. Audiences will have until September 14 to experience this moving performance.
Second Annual Patio Porkers Competition
On Saturday, the Patio Porkers smoke-off competition takes place at Handy Park, starting at noon. This event will feature 30 teams competing for the title of best backyard barbecue, offering an engaging and friendly atmosphere. Admission to watch the competition is free, making it an ideal family-friendly outing for barbecue lovers.
Wiseacre Brewery’s Labubu Giveaway and Meetup
Additionally, Wiseacre Brewery is hosting a Labubu Giveaway and Meetup on Saturday at 1 p.m. This free event includes vendors, sno-cones, and a fashion show, providing a casual environment for community members to enjoy and mingle with local products and crafts.
Memphis Chicken and Beer Festival
For those looking to indulge their taste buds, the seventh annual Memphis Chicken and Beer Festival will take place Saturday evening at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, starting at 6 p.m. Attendees can purchase tickets for $42, which includes a souvenir beer tasting glass and access to over 90 beverage samples paired with delicious chicken options from local vendors.
Weekend Wrap-Up: Stretch & Sip Yoga Class
On Sunday, families and individuals looking to unwind can participate in a Stretch & Sip yoga class at Ghost River Brewing Co. at 11 a.m. This all-levels class follows a pay-what-you-can basis, focusing not only on relaxation and fitness but also on fostering a sense of community.
Conclusion
With this packed schedule filled with diverse activities and events, Memphis offers a vibrant weekend experience for all. From food festivals to theater productions, the city’s cultural and culinary scene is alive and thriving this weekend.
FAQ
What are the main events happening in Memphis this weekend?
Key events include Poke Fest, the premiere of Come from Away, the Patio Porkers barbecue competition, the Memphis Chicken and Beer Festival, and the Stretch & Sip yoga class.
When and where is Poke Fest taking place?
Poke Fest is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at the Hilton, starting at 10 a.m.
How much is the admission for the Chicken and Beer Festival?
Admission for the Chicken and Beer Festival is $42, which includes a souvenir beer tasting glass and access to over 90 beverage samples.
Are there any free events during the weekend?
Yes, watching the Patio Porkers competition and attending the Labubu Giveaway and Meetup at Wiseacre Brewery are both free events.
What is the price range for tickets to Come from Away?
Tickets for Come from Away start at $25, with a pay-what-you-can option available.
Quick Reference Chart of Weekend Events
| Event | Date | Time | Location | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Poke Fest | Saturday & Sunday | 10 a.m. | Hilton | $5 |
| Come from Away | Friday | 8 p.m. | Playhouse on the Square | From $25 |
| Patio Porkers | Saturday | Noon | Handy Park | Free |
| Labubu Giveaway | Saturday | 1 p.m. | Wiseacre Brewery | Free |
| Chicken and Beer Festival | Saturday | 6 p.m. | Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium | $42 |
| Stretch & Sip Yoga | Sunday | 11 a.m. | Ghost River Brewing Co. | Pay-what-you-can |
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Additional Resources
- WREG: Fun Events Happening in Memphis This Weekend
- Wikipedia: Memphis
- Local Memphis: Back to School Events in Memphis
- Google Search: Memphis events 2023
- Memphis Magazine: Five Things to Do This Weekend
- Google Scholar: Memphis weekend events
- Fox 13 Memphis: Weekend Activities
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memphis
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
